Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Quick & Hot Artichoke Dip

I made this dip all the time with my best friend when we were growing up and always hungry. It was our go-to snack, and to this day, I have no idea how we came up with it or when we first got the idea. Artichoke dip was just something one or both of us made just about every week and had at every gathering, whether it was just us two watching TV or a real party. This one takes about 5 minutes (at most) to prepare since everything just goes into the food processor. Once you make it yourself at home, you may not be tempted by the $9 restaurant appetizer version again; our version has a less cheese and mayo but tastes just as good.

Quick & Hot Artichoke Dip

1 can artichoke hearts (like Whole Foods 365 brand)

1/2 cup canola mayonnaise

1/4 cup parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

sea salt and cracked black pepper (to taste)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika

blue or white corn chips or slices of baguette (to serve)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, parmesan, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper into the bowl of your food processor. Pulse until combined but not completely smooth. Brush a small baking dish with olive oil and spoon the dip into it. Top with the remaining olive oil and about 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan plus salt, pepper, and paprika. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes and serve with chips or baguette slices.